Live Review: The Red Pears with Ultra Q at Park West • Chicago
The Red Pears
The Red Pears with Ultra Q
Wednesday, October 9
Park West
Chicago, IL
Review by Ashley Perez-Hollingsworth
The Red Pears are proof that rock isn’t dead. It’s just underground. The El Monte band brought their garage-rock/Latin-infused sound to Chicago’s historic Park West in support of their latest album, Better Late Than Never. With The High Curbs and Ultra Q as support, it was a raucous night with only one goal in mind: to rock the fuck out.
The High Curbs kicked things off with a rousing set. The band, comprised of Ed Moreno, Aaron Korbe, Alberto Alvareng, Kenny Huerta, and Taylor Hecocks, riled up the crowd and quickly won them over. Even with some minor technical difficulties, the band rolled with the punches and told some corny jokes, which made them even more likable.
Oakland-based band Ultra Q kept things moving with their brand of jangly punk rock that got everyone on their feet. Their energetic performance featured the best songs from their latest album, Empty Eddy: “Waiting,” “Gror,” “Peace of Mind,” “Meet Me in the Middle,” and “Some Dice,” along with favorites like “It’s Permanent” and “What D’you Call It.” Their set was nothing but a good time turning the venue into a big dance floor. Mini mosh pits broke out amongst the crowd. Even those in the sitting area couldn’t help but get up and dance. By the end of their set, everyone was singing their praises, especially fans hearing them for the first time. Ultra Q does not disappoint. If anything, they just keep getting better.
With the crowd warmed up, The Red Pears took the stage and wasted no time rocking out. Fans clung to each and every song, whether it was a raging rocker like “Time Bomb,” which beckons for moshing, or a ballad like “Forever,” which prompted a mass sing-along. Playing a mix of old favorites and new tracks from their latest album, the band blazed through their setlist featuring “Arthur,” “Beach Song,” “Not in the Cards,” “See What I Mean,” “Hello-Sin-Nation,” and “Flowers” with little time between songs to let people catch their breath. It was hit after hit after hit of garage rock goodness that left the crowd begging for more.
Ten years into their career, The Red Pears have nailed their performances. They’re so tight with their sound. Jose Corona is a powerful force behind the drumkit. You felt every hit throughout your body. Bassist/guitarist Patrick Juarez has an undeniable air of coolness pulling off guitar tricks while never removing his dark sunglasses even once, and singer Henry Vargas has an unmistakable drawl that commands your attention. Together, they command your attention with their raw sound and undeniable cool factor. You walked out as a fan if you didn’t know The Red Pears walking in. They keep the spirit of garage rock alive and add their own twist to it.
As the crowd walked out of the venue, still buzzing over the show they just witnessed, waiting to meet their (new) favorite bands, and eagerly holding copies of their new albums, you wouldn’t even think of questioning whether rock music is still relevant. The answer is obvious. Sometimes, you just have to know where to look.
Category: Live Reviews
